Investigating a new treatment for spinal cord injury using estrogen-loaded nanoparticles
Official title: Research Career Scientist for Naren Banik, PhD
Funded at Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center · NIH-11105996 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people with spinal cord injuries by using a special gel patch that slowly releases estrogen to protect nerves and reduce muscle loss, and it's being done in rats to see how safe and effective it is before it could be used in patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX005964-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11105996 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from spinal cord injuries, particularly those experiencing neurological deficits and muscle atrophy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to spinal cord injuries or those who do not respond to estrogen therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel treatment for spinal cord injury (SCI) by using estrogen-loaded nanoparticles to enhance neuroprotection and reduce muscle loss. The approach involves creating a slow-release gel patch that delivers estrogen directly to the affected area, potentially improving recovery outcomes. The study will assess the safety, distribution, and effectiveness of this treatment in a rat model of SCI, aiming to provide insights that could translate into clinical applications for patients. By targeting the delivery of estrogen, the research seeks to maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing systemic side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery strategies for patients with spinal cord injuries, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches using targeted drug delivery systems in other conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Banik, Naren L — Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Banik, Naren L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.